Bathymetric mapping in Kakinada Bay, India, using IRS-1D LISS-III data

Remote sensing data from IRS-1D LISS-III were used for bathymetric mapping in Kakinada Bay, India. A global positioning system was employed to locate the accurate sampling points for sea depth. An echo sounder was used to collect sea depth information. Suitability of wavelength bands for bathymetry was examined. An empirical model between sea depth and spectral reflectance was determined based on least squares regression analysis. The influence of turbidity on sea depth measurements using remote sensing data was investigated and a correcting factor (turbidity influence factor, TIF) developed. The regression model was verified using a Chi-square test. The depth of Kakinada Bay was determined using the empirical model and a Band 1 (0.52-0.59 mum) image corrected for turbidity. A bathymetric map of Kakinada was prepared using this depth information.